The Jacksonville economy may benefit from its local mortgage industry and a growing emphasis on exporting and importing activity, according to Frank Trotter, the president of EverBank Direct, the retail banking channel of EverBank Financial Corp.

Trotter, who is based in St. Louis, spoke about geopolitical events and sovereign debt during the World Affairs Council Global Business Luncheon at the River Club in Jacksonville March 6.

For the U.S. economy as a whole, Trotter expects rolling federal, state and local crises; one to three more years of adjustments in the housing industry; possible social unrest; and U.S. dollar and metal volatility.

For Jacksonville, however, Trotter said the city’s robust mortgage industry could benefit from new federal regulations relating to the industry, and Jaxport continues to grow both its importing and exporting trades.

Trotter said the community should also continue developing its educational opportunities so that Jacksonville residents can create new ideas as well.

EverBank, based in Jacksonville, is the largest bank based in Florida with $13 billion in assets.